Ondo Gov Akeredolu Returns

By Ayodele Oni

Anxiety radiates in the air as news filters that Ondo state Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu is due to return to Nigeria any moment from now.

Members of the state executive council and political associates are keeping watch to hear the news of the return of the governor, after three months absence from the state.

Akeredolu had applied to the state assembly for a leave to enable him attend to his health challenges.

During his absence there were reports of his death while ranks of the state executive members divided as a result of power tussle.

It was gathered that the Governor will arrive Ibadan, Oyo State and stay at his residence for a few days before his return to Akure.

Anxious cabinet members and top politicians are expected to visit and brief him while in the Oyo state capital.

Already some Akeredolu’s cabinet members and aides have arrived  Ibadan to welcome him.

Akeredolu began medical leave in June which was later extended indefinitely by the state House of Assembly.

He had transferred power to his Deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in line with constitutional provisions.

Photographs and video of the Governor in a Germany hospital emerged when he celebrated his 67th birthday. In the video, the Governor was seen dancing alongside his wife and associates.

A viral picture of the Governor inside the  aeroplane he boarded in Germany has surfaced online.

Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the verdict of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT), which upheld his victory in the February 25 Presidential Election.

The Governor, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, described the tribunal’s judgement as a revalidation of the people’s mandate and the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.

“This judgement has again deepened our nation’s jurisprudence and solidified our commitment to democratic values.

“As true democrats, we must embrace the tents of democracy which also encompass post election litigations.

“Our struggle for service must also fuel our reverence for democratic values. The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has dispensed Justice. Now is the time to come together and build our nation.

“The renewed hope drive of President Tinubu is anchored on assurance of a paradigm shift.

“The result of the February 25 Presidential poll, upheld by the Tribunal, represents the will of majority of Nigerians who voted massively for the APC.

“Our Judiciary has again lived up to expectations. It has reaffirmed our belief that it remains the last hope of the masses.

“We must collectively commend the pivotal role our Judiciary has played in enriching our democracy and upholding justice.

“Notwithstanding our days in court, we urge the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party Candidate, Mr Peter Obi to sheath their swords and join hands with the President to develop the country.

“The Tribunal verdict should be accepted in good faith by all lovers of democracy. Our commitment to advancing the national project must be built on national interest which prioritises the good of the people above personal victory.

“Since our collective vision is shaped by our passion for a prosperous nation, let us, therefore, embrace the will of the people and support the President in delivering on his Renewed Hope agenda.”